⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5

What a debut novel! This is one is going to stick with me for a while.

I love the premise! After Bennet stands Henry up on their first date, they become unlikely friends when Henry devises a plan to get Bennet out of her comfort zone and find her passion by trying new activities around NYC.

I definitely related to Bennet— I get feeling like you’re the only one who doesn’t have life figured out; that you’re somehow lagging behind. And Henry! Top tier book boyfriend material. Kind, funny and a little bit nerdy!

The book tackles heavy topics like grief, depression and anxiety head on— and, somehow manages to do it with both humor and sensitivity. Truly a masterclass!

I am so, so glad that I got to read this book. I can’t wait to read more from London in the future!

Read if you like:
- Meet Uglies
- Friends to Lovers
- Only One Bed
- Female Friendships
- Quarter Life Crisis
- Hot Messes
- Flirting and Banter
- Love After Loss
- Mental Health Rep

Thanks to Penguin/Viking and Netgalley for the eARC!

WOW! This was a wonderful debut and only has me more excited to read more books in the future from London. The main theme of this book is grief and trying to work thru the grief so our FMC can be at least a little of the person she used to be, if not a better person. The way Henry and Bennet meet is not very normal 😅 Bennet gets drunk on too much wine after bailing on her date with Henry but ends up getting sick in the bathroom. Guess who knocks on the door? Henry. Guess who also works at the restaurant where Bennet is puking her guts up in the bathroom? Also Henry 😅
Henry wants to help Bennet from her passion again and honestly Henry is just the kind of person Bennet needs in her life. She’s been drowning in grief and has gotten so deep in it that she’s pushed everyone close to her away. She thought it was best because she didn’t even want to be around herself so she thought others felt the same way.
I love the friendship that these two formed. I love how it started. I love how it progressed. I love all of the little things they did on their weekly meets. I loved all of the people they met along the way. And man do I love Henry. 🥹 such a wonderful MMC. The patience of that man is CRAZY.
It’s overall just a really good book!!!!

Wow!

After going through my own grief these past couple years and barely existing each day, I found Bennett so relatable. From being a shell of yourself, having a lack of passion, not being present for friends, the fear of not being loved for the new version of yourself by your love ones, the anxiety, to slowly but surely trying new things to find passion again.

I want to send a copy to my friends when this comes out because this author was able to capture my specific form of dealing with grief in a way that I was unable to vocalize to my friends. There was so many times I was like “Yes!!!! This! This is what I was trying to explain. This is why I disappeared for so long.”

What a great debut.

Review has been posted to goodreads. A blog review to come soon.

A sparkling, sweet debut that has absolutely everything. I read in another review that this book is "Emily Henry for Gen Z" and I cannot agree more.

Bennet is 25, barely getting by in New York City. Her late boyfriend, Sam, died in a car accident and always dreamed of living in Manhattan, she is now living there with her roommate Sophia in his honor. In grieving Sam's death from 2 years ago, Bennet has lost contact with Sam's family, and they were like a second family to her. But it hurt too much to maintain a relationship with those closest to him. Her friends decide she has to get out into the world and sign her up for a dating app, the first date is a disaster, she realizes she isn't ready and ghosts the guy and ends up getting drunk and full of pasta at an Italian restaurant across the street.

Turns out, the failed date, Henry Adams, happens to work at that restaurant, where she left her wallet in a sloppy mess. She admits she isn't ready and they decide to be friends, and they decide to do adventurous things to discover her passion in life around the city.

What follows is a friends-to-lovers, heavily New York centered, rom com with incredible characterization, the wittiest of witty banter and one of the best book boyfriends there is-- Henry Adams. I can hardly believe this is a debut, I will read anything London Sperry writes. This book is excellent, it has been so long since I read a "five star" romance, and this reminds me of Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, Sarah Adams and Jessica Joyce. Some spice, but mostly a perfectly paced plot that doesn't rely on tropes and has quirky yet lovable side characters. This novel keys in on one of my favorite themes- that we all are at least a teensy bit afraid that we are unlovable. In Bennet's case, because of the pain she feels at losing what may have been her great and only true love.

++ points for Mamma Mia and Pride and Prejudice references

**a best romance of 2025**
**a best debut of 2025**

Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin/ Viking for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Book to be published April 8, 2025.

I’ve never been to New York before, but I feel like I can see it from this author‘s words. The descriptive setting and Henry are what really make this book so good. I don’t have to like all the characters to enjoy the story and I didn’t really like Bennet. She is depression/anxiety/grief. But the author did a good job because I truly felt all the sadness radiating off her. Henry is so lively, charming, and an all around great person. He has his own troubles but his way through the sadness is to find joy. They are really good together because when he is helping her, he is unknowingly helping himself too. Overall this is an excellent debut and I’m looking forward to what the author does next. A special shout out to side character Sal for the joy he brought to the book 📚

eArc provided by the Publisher through NetGalley. Thank you in advance.

She is going through a tough time; he is there to help her find a passion. Nothing can get complicated. Just friends… No problem. 

Let’s take this part out of the way. It is a slow-burn romance book, but the main topic is grief.

Bennet is having a hard time, and the least she expected was to build a friendship with Henry. You will find slow burn, cute comments, and shy flirtation. There are some comments/lines that make you smile or laugh; there are other parts of the books where you find yourself possibly cutting onions? Spice level? 0.5%.

Henry's character is such a beautiful human, open to showing emotions. I could see his reactions and facial expressions while reading this book. 

The way the author described Bennet’s depression and grief caught my attention; there was no better way to describe one way of going through depression, and the author did a great job at it, slowly unfolding what that looked like for Bennet and her progression while working through it.

Lastly, this book is an emotional journey of letting go of the past, forgiving yourself and others, opening yourself to others, and learning to love again.

4.5 stars - what a great debut! Bennett is a twentysomething temp worker in NYC struggling with depression and anxiety after the death of her college boyfriend. She bumps into Henry just hours after standing him up for a first date, and ultimately they decide that instead of dating he'll help rekindle Bennett's passion for life by trying something new together each week. This is a very slow burn journey as they grow their friendship and develop stronger feelings. Along the way Bennett's struggle with grief and self-esteem is just as integral to the story as the romance. Both characters are down-to-earth, authentic, and well-rounded. There were a couple of things that I thought could've been tweaked during the editing process, but overall this is a fantastic debut from an author. Give this to readers who enjoy heavier topics in their romance novels, including fans of Jessica Joyce and Cara Bastone.

What a GEM of a book!
I loved the premise, love that we had a main character that isn’t just thriving and living a glam life, but she had to work to find it for herself.

London Sperry I’m a fan!

4.25 stars - this was a great debut! The story follows Bennet, who is lost and grieving the loss of someone close to her, and Henry as they embark on a mission to find her “passion” (hence Passion Project). I thought Bennet was a very relatable character, and the discussion around anxiety, depression, and grief was extremely well done. One of the great things with the writing and characters was that they felt like real people, so it was easy to relate and feel for Bennet on her journey. Henry was a great addition to the story, but it really was much deeper and tracks Bennet’s personal growth over the course of the summer. A lot of the adventures Bennet and Henry take through New York were really fun and very reminiscent of Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone. Despite the similarities, the characters felt new and authentic. I will say that some of the plot points and dialogue came across as a bit cliché, but it worked with how well the story was developed. The writing was also great and very reminiscent of Abby Jimenez, Ashley Poston, and Jessica Joyce. Overall, great debut and will definitely pick up more from this author in the future.

What a great surprise! This heartfelt debut gave me Jessica Joyce vibes, and I say that in a very complimentary way. I decided to dive into this one based only on the vibrant cover and intriguing blurb, but I stuck around because of the chemistry, banter, and complex storyline. It’s a layered mix of women’s fiction and romance, following a heroine who has been stuck in slow motion since the sudden death of her boyfriend a few years ago. Our extroverted, golden retriever hero is the perfect person to help her find a spark of joy, and their slow-burning romance was a treat. I loved that the story could be heavy and emotional one minute, then playful and fun the next. My only complaint is that it could’ve been a little longer, but that’s mostly because I genuinely enjoyed my time with these characters. A definite win for me!

The story follows Bennet, a woman who is stuck going nowhere. After the death of her college boyfriend, Bennet stopped thinking about her own goals and aspirations, instead choosing to work a series of temporary jobs while living in a city she didn’t choose. So when Bennet’s friends encourage her to go on a date and she realizes that she is still not ready, the last thing Bennet expects is to form a friendship with the guy she ghosted. When Henry learns why their date was derailed, he convinces Bennet to go on a friendly adventure instead. They could both use some company, and Henry is determined to help Bennet find something she’s passionate about. As the two explore the city, they develop a friendship that might just become a foundation for love.

I went into this with zero expectations and was quickly hooked. I loved Henry from the start, this extroverted sweetheart who seems to genuinely care. Much of the book is spent with Bennet and Henry wandering around the city together, learning to love the place they live and coming alive in the process. Bennet isn’t magically healed by Henry’s friendship, but you can see her slowly come out of the fog of grief. They have fantastic chemistry throughout, with playful vibes that grow richer and deeper as their relationship evolves. We don’t get Henry’s perspective, but that worked for the story – Bennet’s journey is just as integral as the romance. I do think the story would’ve been elevated even further by a few more romantic moments, but the whole thing is really about their love. If this is Sperry’s debut, then I am definitely excited to see more from her – it was a memorable and complex read.

Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity to read an early release of this debut novel. Good character development, depth, and a great message. Especially loved Henry (swoon)💕 Excited to read more by this author!

This debut kept me reading past my bedtime- I finished it in one night! It’s a hopeful romance, but there were tears shed as well. I won’t lie, I wanted to shove the FMC into therapy, but I understand her actions and thoughts. Loved the NYC setting and the connection between the main characters.

As someone born in NYC, I was hooked immediately. Not only did I love the premise, but I was laughing just a few pages in. By the end, I was crying. Love and grief were wrapped together to make a beautiful story.

Following Henry and Bennet around Manhattan was like visiting my old hometown along with them! I love when characters aren't incredibly successful and are still finding their own feet in the world. It makes them flawed, but incredibly real.

Henry and Bennet falling in love was like all of your favorite love songs. Their chemistry was SO cute! I could tell this was going to be a five-star read for me early on in the book, and I devoured it in just days.

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group for this arc!

One of the most healing and beautiful books I’ve read! Mental heath + grief representation was so on par and handled with so much grace. This book was SO REAL! The loved the pacing of this story and setting. 100000% recommend! Absolutely beautiful!!!!

I would never have guessed that this was a debut novel for the author - it was so well written! 4.25 stars overall!

The book follows main character, Bennet Taylor, as she navigates her grief following the death of her college boyfriend. A few years after his death, she’s really struggling - feeling stuck, depressed, and anxious. That is until she meets, Henry Adams, who helps her start her “passion project” - as friends…and he pushes her to choose to start living again for herself.

Although the book deals with pretty heavy topics, it’s done very well and leaves you feeling hopeful.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Penguin Books for the advanced reader copy. Check it out on April 8th when it’s released!

5⭐ (If I can rate this infinite stars I would)

Thank you for Netgalley and London Sperry for the eARC. I will be purchasing this book once it hits stores :)

Blurb: Bennet has been battling with depression ever since the death of her boyfriend, Sam, and moved to NYC to fulfill his dreams. Ever since moving there, she hasn't loved New York the way that she thought and has been stunted by her depression. She is set up on a date with Henry to try to lift her spirits but after that epically fails, they stay friends and Henry agrees to help Bennet re-find her passion.

My GOODNESS gracious. Ms. Sperry, you have found yourself a superfan. You are now an autobuy author. This book was visceral and heartwrenching and while I don't have firsthand experience in depression, but in my opinion, I think it was written in a way that readers can relate to it and empathize with it. There were many times where I found myself also frustrated with Bennet every time she got in the way of her own happiness, but you can couldn't help but empathize with her pain.

This book was heavy for me, but I'm very happy I read it. This was a love letter to New York - its inhabitants, its way of life and the city itself. It makes me miss the city and it made me want to book a trip to NYC and undergo my Passion Project too! Its witty and funny conversations and the way Henry was just so understanding made this book even better.

(I will post my review on bookstagram sooner to the release date, April 8th).

Now this was GOOD.

I applaud London Sperry for writing what felt like an accurate depiction of depression and anxiety, and painting such a raw portrait of grief and how it follows you for years. I fell in love with Bennet almost immediately because I could relate to her. She’s floating in a city that she doesn’t understand and that doesn’t understand her, she feels like she’s a burden on everyone around her, and her room is a mess. She really is a well developed character with real and believable emotions—so well done that even when she self-sabatoged, you understand why she did it—and it makes the reader want to cheer her on (which I did!). There’s a cast of lovable and quirky characters that keeps you reading, and then there's Henry.

Henry! Henry is Bennet’s opposite in almost every way, and also might be the love of my life. Who doesn’t love an understanding, gorgeous, and patient MMC? The chemistry between him and Bennet was tangible and I was eating it up every step of the way. I love a friends to lovers done right, and oh boy was this done right.

I loved the message portrayed throughout this book. That it’s okay to not know what you want to do in your twenties, to be in a foreign city and feel like you don’t fit in, to mourn your first love and still find the courage to fall for your second, that a boy won’t fix all your problems and you’ll probably still need to go to therapy. That friendship is so important! I do wish there was a bit more family focus but that’s personal preference and doesn’t take away from the book as it is now!

True rating is 4.5 because the last 12% (yes, twelve!) had me looking at my invisible camera in shock and rage.

brb going to New York immediately.

I’ll be posting my review on my instagram sometime this week @readbylydiaa and will talk about it in my monthly wrap up on my tiktok @readbylydiaa!

I LOVE THIS BOOK SOOO MUCH!!! I was soo hooked from the very first chapter and I knew it was going to be one of my favouritea this year! The portrayal or grief and depression was so real that it made me cry soo much!

Thank you to the publisher for an ARC!

This was a non traditional romance in the sense that grief was basically a third character. I really enjoyed how Bennett had to grapple with her grief and her journey to self acceptance was great to see. I loved Henry, and found him to be such a patient and kind guy. Exactly what Bennett needed.

Bennett could be a frustrating character because she frequently self sabotaged and hurt the people who love her most. While this is relatable and real for many people dealing with grief and depression, I almost wish it wasn’t a love story. I couldn’t help but feel bad for Henry during multiple parts of the book. I’m glad they got there in the end though.

While Bennett’s depression could be frustrating to read through as a reader, I also thought it was a really well done portrayal. It wasn’t glossed over, or made to feel like something that could be gotten over as soon as she found a guy, which I really appreciated. She had to do a lot of healing and I was glad she had Henry there to help her through it. I appreciated that a point was made to say that she alone was responsible for her healing and growth.

Overall this was a great read and I loved the character growth.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin Group Viking, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This may be Sperry's debut book, but it didn't feel like it (in a good way). This book encompasses the real feelings of grief while adding heart and humor. This book also felt like a love letter to New York City, and I was vibing with it as a former resident there.

London managed to write phenomenal in-depth characters, with great development and a form of storytelling that just drags you into their world head first. Additionally, Henry might be one of my favorite MMCs overall. He's just such a joy to read about. He is the embodiment of a green flag MMC. His character is just a giant hug, saying, "If he wanted to, he would." He shows up for Bennet without expectations just because it's who he is, and he cares. Although this was told from Bennet's POV, there was enough to satisfy me with Henry, but I wish he had a bit more backstory.

It is important to note that grief is a significant theme of the book. How it was approached made me think of Cara Bastone's Promise Me Sunshine in the best possible way, in which myriad emotions are tied with grief. It felt like a multidimensional read while also being sweet and easy to read. I cannot wait for it to go out into the world for everyone to love. I cannot wait to read more from this author.

Read if you like:
- Golden retriever/black cat
- One bed
- Single POV
- Friends to lovers